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Elgin National Watch Co. was in operation from 1864-1968 and was an American pocket watch manufacturer. Manufacturing of Elgin watches took place at their facility in Elgin, Illinois.
The porcelain-enamel dial is the star of this piece—absolutely flawless and breathtaking in its design. It showcases a knockout combination of orange-golden inlay with an off-white center, while elegant numerals are framed by delicate stars and a silvered outer chapter ring marked in five-minute intervals. Between each index are intricate silver motifs that shimmer under the light. Knowing that this dial dates from the 1800s and remains in such pristine condition makes it one of the most impressive fancy dials we have ever handled. Inside, the watch houses Elgin’s Grade 133 movement, crafted in Elgin, Illinois, and completed in 1896—marking the very first year and very first run of production for this grade. This 15-jewel movement was produced only briefly between 1896 and 1899 and features an exposed mainspring barrel and striking damaskeening. Every component was carefully refinished by hand, including blue accents on the screws and hardware achieved through precise hand-applied thermal treatment—a traditional watchmaking technique that enhances both corrosion resistance and visual appeal (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand-polished to bring back their original golden sheen, while the hands remain in their original heat-blued state, untouched. This combination of a show-stopping fancy dial, historically significant movement, and meticulous restoration work makes this timepiece a true treasure.
Housed in our expertly engineered 40 mm conversion case, this timepiece is designed to highlight the elegance of its vintage dial while offering one of the most wearable conversion cases available. Crafted from surgical-grade 316L stainless steel, the case features both caseback and crown gaskets for enhanced durability and water resistance up to 50 meters (though we recommend removing the watch before water activities). Every piece is fully serviced, meticulously tested, and prepared to accompany you on your next adventure.
Watch Performance
Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day
Amplitude: 300 degrees
Beat Error: 1.5 ms
Frequency: 18,000 (5 beats per second)
Power Reserve: 24-30 hours
Complication: Sub second hand
Watch Specifications
Manufacture: Elgin
Location: Elgin, Illinois
Year Manufactured: 1896
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel (flawless)
Jewels: 15 jewels
Case Diameter: 40 mm
Front Crystal: Domed sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat sapphire
Case Material: 316L stainless
Lug width: 20 mm
Lug to Lug: 48 mm
Height: 13 mm
Original Case Included: No
Serial Number: 6039046
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.